When your business operations involve working at height-whether for facilities management, construction, or arboriculture-the question isn’t whether you need a cherry picker, but how you should acquire one.
The UK market for Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs) from Access Platform Sales is robust, offering everything from compact tracked spider lifts to heavy-duty self-propelled articulated booms. However, the decision between investing in a brand-new machine or opting for an approved used model can be a complex financial and operational puzzle.
In this guide, we break down the pros and cons of new versus used cherry pickers to help you determine which investment delivers the best return for your specific business needs.
The Case for Buying a New Cherry Picker
Buying a new cherry picker is often seen as the “gold standard” investment. While the upfront cost is higher, the long-term benefits in terms of reliability and technology are significant.
1. Latest Safety and Emission Standards
The regulatory landscape for working at height in the UK is constantly evolving. New machines come equipped with the latest safety innovations, such as advanced secondary guarding systems and enhanced tilt sensors. Furthermore, if your business operates in London or other UK cities with Low Emission Zones (LEZ) or Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ), new electric or hybrid models ensure you remain compliant without incurring daily charges.
2. Full Manufacturer Warranty
Peace of mind is a valuable commodity. New cherry pickers come with comprehensive manufacturer warranties that cover major components for the first few years of operation. This eliminates the risk of unexpected, costly repair bills shortly after purchase.
3. Custom Specification
When buying new, you aren’t limited by what is currently in stock. You can specify the exact features your business requires-whether that’s non-marking tyres for indoor warehouse work, an onboard generator, or specific cage attachments for specialised tasks.
4. Longer Operational Lifespan
A new machine is a “blank slate.” With a rigorous maintenance schedule from day one, a new cherry picker can remain in a fleet for 10 to 15 years, offering a lower total cost of ownership (TCO) over its entire life.
The Case for Buying a Used Cherry Picker
For many UK SMEs and start-ups, the used market offers a more accessible entry point into equipment ownership.
1. Lower Capital Outlay
The most obvious benefit of a used cherry picker is the price. You can often acquire a high-quality, “approved used” machine for 40% to 60% of the cost of a new model. This frees up capital for other areas of your business or allows you to purchase a higher-specification machine than you could otherwise afford.
2. Immediate Availability
Lead times for new machinery can sometimes stretch into months due to global supply chain fluctuations. Used machines are typically available for immediate delivery. If you have a contract starting next week that requires a 17m reach, the used market is your best friend.
3. Slower Depreciation
Like a new car, a cherry picker loses a significant chunk of its value the moment it leaves the showroom. By purchasing used, the previous owner has already “absorbed” that initial steep drop in value. Should you choose to sell the machine in three years, the gap between your purchase price and sale price will be much smaller.
4. Proven Reliability
An “approved used” machine has a track record. When purchased through a reputable dealer, these machines undergo rigorous multi-point inspections and are sold with a fresh LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) certificate, ensuring they meet UK safety standards from the moment they arrive on site.Key Considerations: Making the Right Choice
To decide which route is better for your business, consider these four critical factors:
1. Frequency of Use
How often will the machine be in the air?
- Daily Use: If the cherry picker is the backbone of your daily operations (e.g., a dedicated window cleaning or signage company), the reliability and warranty of a new machine are usually worth the premium.
- Intermittent Use: If you only need the machine a few times a month for maintenance or specific projects, a usedmachine offers a much faster Return on Investment (ROI).
2. The Type of Machine Required
The “New vs Used” debate often depends on the category of the lift.
- Tracked Spider Lifts: These are complex machines. Because they are often used in demanding environments (like narrow gated gardens or inside churches), buying new ensures the delicate hydraulic and tracking systems are in peak condition.
- Towable/Trailer-Mounted Lifts: These are known for their simplicity and durability. They are excellent candidates for the used market as they have fewer moving parts to wear out compared to self-propelled models.
- Articulated Booms: If you need a 4×4 rough terrain machine for construction sites, “used” can be risky unless you have a detailed service history, as these machines often work in harsh, gritty conditions.
3. Maintenance and Aftercare
Owning a cherry picker in the UK comes with legal responsibilities. Regardless of whether the machine is new or used, you must adhere to LOLER 1998 regulations, which require a thorough examination by a competent person every six months.
When buying new, your maintenance costs will be predictable and low for the first few years. When buying used, you should factor in a slightly higher annual budget for wear-and-tear parts like hydraulic hoses, seals, and batteries.
4. Finance Options
Don’t assume that you need the full cash amount upfront. Many UK equipment specialists offer hire purchase or leasing options for both new and approved used machines. Financing a used machine can result in very low monthly repayments that are easily covered by the revenue the machine generates.
Comparison Table: New vs. Approved Used
| Feature | New Cherry Picker | Approved Used Cherry Picker |
| Upfront Cost | High | Low to Medium |
| Depreciation | Rapid in years 1-3 | Much slower |
| Technology | Latest safety/efficiency | Previous generation |
| Lead Time | Can be long (weeks/months) | Usually immediate |
| Warranty | Full manufacturer cover | Limited dealer warranty |
| Regulatory | Guaranteed ULEZ/Stage V | Requires a check for compliance |
| Reliability | Peak performance | Dependent on refurbishment quality |
Which is Better for Your Business?
Choose New If:
- You have a high-utilisation rate (30+ hours a week).
- You require specific, modern features or “green” electric technology for city work.
- You want the highest possible resale value in 10 years.
- Your business prioritises “brand image” and wants the latest equipment on-site.
Choose Used If:
- You are a start-up or small business looking to manage cash flow.
- The machine will be used sporadically or as a backup.
- You need a machine immediately to fulfill a contract.
- You want to avoid the “depreciation hit” of a brand-new asset.
Conclusion
There is no “one size fits all” answer when choosing between a new or used cherry picker. The “better” choice is the one that aligns with your balance sheet and your operational frequency.
A new machine is a long-term strategic investment in efficiency and brand reputation. An approved used machine is a pragmatic, cost-effective tool that allows for rapid scaling and immediate flexibility.
Whichever path you choose, ensure you partner with a supplier that provides a full service history, a valid LOLER certificate, and robust aftercare support. Safety is the one area where there is no room for compromise, regardless of the age of the machine.
